Forsten's parrotfish (*Scarus forsteni*) is a vibrantly colored reef fish native to the Indo-Pacific region, recognized for its role in maintaining coral reef health by grazing on algae. This species is particularly important in artisanal and small-scale fisheries across Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific. The top countries involved in the harvesting of Forsten's parrotfish include Indonesia, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, and parts of the Solomon Islands. In these nations, parrotfish are caught primarily for local consumption, often using spearfishing and traditional netting methods. While not a major target of large-scale commercial fisheries, Forsten's parrotfish contributes significantly to the livelihoods and food security of coastal communities, though concerns about overfishing and reef degradation have led to increased interest in sustainable management practices.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.